Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method comprising: receiving, by a session management function from an access and mobility management function, a request for a packet data unit session for a wireless device; determining, by the session management function, that the packet data unit session for the wireless device requires a user plane function that supports an uplink classifier functionality; sending, by the session management function to a network repository function and based on the determining, a first message requesting a discovery of the user plane function, the first message comprising an uplink classifier indication parameter; receiving, by the session management function from the network repository function and based on the first message, a second message comprising an identifier of the user plane function; and sending, by the session management function to the user plane function, a third message requesting to establish a connection between the session management function and the user plane function.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions in a 5G network architecture. The problem addressed is efficiently selecting a user plane function (UPF) that supports uplink classifier functionality, which is required for certain PDU sessions to route traffic appropriately. The method involves a session management function (SMF) receiving a request for a PDU session from an access and mobility management function (AMF) for a wireless device. The SMF determines that the session requires a UPF with uplink classifier support. To find a suitable UPF, the SMF sends a discovery request to a network repository function (NRF), including an uplink classifier indication parameter. The NRF responds with an identifier of a compatible UPF. The SMF then establishes a connection with the identified UPF to proceed with the session setup. This approach ensures that the UPF selected can handle traffic classification, which is critical for services requiring specific routing or policy enforcement. The method streamlines the discovery process by leveraging the NRF to locate UPFs with the necessary capabilities, improving network efficiency and session reliability.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the third message comprises an identifier of the connection between the session management function and the user plane function.
A system and method for managing network connections in a wireless communication network, particularly in scenarios involving session management functions (SMFs) and user plane functions (UPFs). The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking and managing data connections between these network components to ensure seamless service delivery and proper resource allocation. The method involves establishing a connection between an SMF and a UPF, where the SMF is responsible for managing user sessions and the UPF handles data transmission. A third message is exchanged between the SMF and the UPF, containing an identifier that uniquely identifies the connection between them. This identifier allows the network to track the connection, monitor its status, and manage resources effectively. The identifier may be used to correlate the connection with specific user sessions, enabling the network to apply policies, enforce quality of service (QoS) requirements, and troubleshoot issues. The method may also include additional steps such as authenticating the connection, verifying the identifier, and updating connection parameters. The identifier ensures that the SMF and UPF can reliably communicate and maintain the connection, even in dynamic network environments where connections may be frequently established, modified, or terminated. This approach enhances network efficiency, reduces signaling overhead, and improves overall service reliability.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the request for the packet data unit session for the wireless device comprises a request to create the packet data unit session for the wireless device.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions in wireless networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable establishment of PDU sessions for wireless devices, ensuring seamless connectivity and data transmission. The method involves processing a request to create a PDU session for a wireless device. The request is received by a network entity, such as a session management function (SMF) or a mobility management entity (MME), which then initiates the session creation process. This includes validating the request, allocating necessary network resources, and configuring the session parameters to support the wireless device's data transmission needs. The method ensures that the PDU session is established with the required quality of service (QoS) and security settings, enabling the wireless device to access network services efficiently. The method may also involve interacting with other network functions, such as the access and mobility management function (AMF) or the user plane function (UPF), to ensure proper session management. The session creation process may include exchanging signaling messages between network entities to confirm the session's establishment and activate the necessary data paths. The method ensures that the PDU session is created in a timely manner, minimizing disruptions to the wireless device's connectivity and data services.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the request to create the packet data unit session comprises: an identifier of the packet data unit session; and network slice information of the packet data unit session.
A method for managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions in a wireless communication network addresses the need for efficient session establishment and resource allocation. The method involves creating a PDU session by transmitting a request that includes an identifier for the session and network slice information. The identifier uniquely distinguishes the PDU session, while the network slice information specifies the network resources and capabilities allocated to the session, such as bandwidth, latency, or reliability requirements. This allows the network to dynamically allocate appropriate resources based on the session's needs, improving network efficiency and service quality. The method ensures that the PDU session is established with the correct configuration, enabling seamless communication for applications requiring specific performance characteristics. By incorporating session-specific identifiers and network slice details in the request, the method supports flexible and scalable network management, accommodating diverse service demands in modern wireless networks.
5. The method of claim 3 , further comprising sending, by the session management function to the access and mobility management function, a response message indicating a result of the request to create the packet data unit session.
In the domain of wireless communication networks, particularly 5G systems, this invention addresses the need for efficient session management between network functions. The invention involves a method for establishing a packet data unit (PDU) session in a 5G network, where a session management function (SMF) interacts with an access and mobility management function (AMF) to create and manage the session. The method includes the SMF receiving a request to create a PDU session, processing the request, and then sending a response message to the AMF indicating the result of the request. The response message may include success or failure status, along with additional session-related information such as quality of service (QoS) parameters, session identifiers, or error codes. This interaction ensures proper coordination between the SMF and AMF, enabling seamless session establishment and management in the network. The method may also involve the SMF validating the request, allocating resources, and configuring network policies before sending the response. The invention improves network efficiency by ensuring reliable communication between core network functions during session setup.
6. The method of claim 3 , wherein the request to create the packet data unit session is in response to a session creation request by the wireless device.
A system and method for managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions in wireless communication networks addresses the challenge of efficiently establishing and maintaining data connections between wireless devices and network services. The invention involves a process where a wireless device initiates a session creation request, prompting the network to generate a PDU session. This session serves as a logical connection for transmitting data between the device and the network, ensuring reliable and secure communication. The method includes validating the request, allocating necessary network resources, and configuring the session parameters to meet the device's requirements. The system dynamically adjusts session parameters based on network conditions, device capabilities, and service demands, optimizing performance and resource utilization. This approach enhances connectivity, reduces latency, and improves overall network efficiency by streamlining session management and adapting to varying network environments. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where seamless and efficient data transmission is critical, such as in mobile broadband, IoT applications, and high-speed wireless networks.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving, by the session management function from the user plane function, a response message indicating a result of the third message.
In the domain of wireless communication systems, particularly in 5G networks, this invention addresses the challenge of efficiently managing user sessions and data transmission between network functions. The method involves a session management function (SMF) that coordinates session establishment, modification, or release for user equipment (UE) in the network. The SMF interacts with a user plane function (UPF) to handle data routing and forwarding. The invention improves session management by enabling the SMF to receive a response message from the UPF, which indicates the result of a third message exchanged between the SMF and UPF. This third message may relate to session-related operations, such as modifying packet detection rules, updating quality of service (QoS) parameters, or handling data forwarding. The response message allows the SMF to confirm the success or failure of these operations, ensuring reliable session management. The method enhances network efficiency by providing feedback on session-related actions, reducing errors, and optimizing data transmission paths. This approach is particularly useful in dynamic network environments where real-time adjustments to session parameters are necessary.
8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising selecting, by the network repository function, the user plane function based on the uplink classifier indication parameter.
A system and method for network function selection in a telecommunications network involves dynamically selecting a user plane function (UPF) based on traffic classification. The system includes a network repository function (NRF) that stores information about available network functions, including UPFs. When a request for network resources is received, the NRF evaluates an uplink classifier indication parameter, which identifies the type of traffic (e.g., latency-sensitive, high-bandwidth, or low-priority). The NRF then selects an appropriate UPF that meets the traffic requirements, such as low-latency processing for real-time applications or high-throughput handling for bulk data transfers. This selection ensures optimal performance by matching traffic characteristics with the capabilities of available UPFs. The system may also include a policy control function (PCF) to enforce quality-of-service (QoS) rules and a session management function (SMF) to manage network sessions. The method improves network efficiency by dynamically allocating resources based on real-time traffic demands, reducing congestion and enhancing user experience.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the request for the packet data unit session for the wireless device comprises a request to modify the packet data unit session for the wireless device.
In wireless communication systems, managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions efficiently is critical for maintaining reliable connectivity and optimizing network resources. A key challenge is dynamically adjusting PDU sessions to accommodate changing conditions, such as varying data demands or network capabilities, without disrupting ongoing communications. This invention addresses this challenge by providing a method for modifying an existing PDU session for a wireless device. The method involves receiving a request to modify the PDU session, which may include changes to session parameters such as quality of service (QoS) attributes, data flow configurations, or network slice selections. The modification request is processed to update the session while preserving the active connection, ensuring seamless continuity of service. This approach allows the network to adapt to real-time requirements, such as increased bandwidth needs or changes in device mobility, without requiring a full session reestablishment. The method supports efficient resource allocation and enhances user experience by minimizing service interruptions during session adjustments.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the request to modify the packet data unit session is in response to a session modification request by the wireless device.
A method for managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions in wireless communication systems addresses the need for dynamic session adjustments to optimize network performance and resource allocation. The method involves modifying an existing PDU session in response to a session modification request initiated by a wireless device. This request may include parameters such as quality of service (QoS) requirements, data rate adjustments, or network slice selection updates. The modification process ensures seamless adaptation of the session to changing conditions, such as varying network load or device mobility, without disrupting ongoing data transmission. The method may also involve coordinating with network entities like the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) or Session Management Function (SMF) to implement the requested changes. By enabling real-time adjustments, the method enhances efficiency, reduces latency, and improves overall user experience in wireless networks. The approach is particularly useful in scenarios where devices require flexible connectivity options, such as in 5G networks supporting diverse services like IoT, mobile broadband, and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC).
11. The method of claim 9 , further comprising sending, by the session management function to the access and mobility management function, a response message indicating a result of the request to modify the packet data unit session.
In the domain of wireless communication networks, particularly 5G systems, managing packet data unit (PDU) sessions efficiently is critical for maintaining seamless connectivity and service quality. A key challenge is dynamically modifying PDU sessions to adapt to changing network conditions or user requirements, such as adjusting quality of service (QoS) parameters or switching between different network slices. This requires coordination between the session management function (SMF) and the access and mobility management function (AMF) to ensure modifications are properly authorized and implemented. The invention addresses this by providing a method for modifying a PDU session in a 5G network. The SMF receives a request to modify the PDU session, which may include changes to QoS rules, network slice selection, or other session parameters. The SMF processes this request, evaluates the feasibility of the modification, and determines the appropriate actions. If the modification is approved, the SMF sends a response message to the AMF, indicating the result of the request. This response may confirm successful modification, report errors, or provide additional details about the modification outcome. The AMF then uses this information to update the network's configuration or notify other network entities as needed. This method ensures that PDU session modifications are handled efficiently and reliably, improving network performance and user experience.
12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second message further comprises at least one capability information of the user plane function.
A system and method for enhancing communication between network functions in a wireless communication network, particularly for managing user plane functions (UPFs) in a 5G or similar architecture. The problem addressed is the lack of efficient capability exchange between network functions, leading to suboptimal resource allocation and service delivery. The invention provides a solution by enabling dynamic exchange of capability information between network functions, allowing for better decision-making in traffic routing and service provisioning. The method involves transmitting a first message from a network function to a user plane function (UPF) to establish a communication session. The UPF then responds with a second message that includes at least one capability information of the UPF. This capability information may include details such as supported protocols, bandwidth limits, processing capabilities, or other performance metrics. By sharing this information, the network function can make informed decisions about how to route traffic or allocate resources, improving overall network efficiency and service quality. The capability exchange can occur during session establishment or dynamically during an ongoing session, allowing for real-time adjustments based on changing network conditions. This approach ensures that the network can adapt to varying demands and optimize performance without manual intervention.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the at least one capability information of the user plane function comprises a traffic routing capability of the user plane function.
A method for managing network functions in a telecommunications system addresses the challenge of efficiently routing user plane traffic in a distributed network architecture. The method involves determining the capabilities of a user plane function (UPF) within a 5G or similar network, specifically focusing on its traffic routing capabilities. These capabilities include the UPF's ability to handle and direct data traffic between different network nodes, such as between a radio access network and a core network, or between different core network functions. The method ensures that traffic is routed optimally based on the UPF's specific routing capabilities, improving network performance and resource utilization. By assessing and leveraging these capabilities, the system can dynamically adapt to varying network conditions and user demands, ensuring efficient data flow and minimizing latency. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple UPFs are deployed, allowing the network to select the most suitable UPF for specific traffic types or service requirements. The method enhances overall network flexibility and scalability, supporting advanced services like ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and massive machine-type communication (mMTC).
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the traffic routing capability indicates that the user plane function supports an ipv6 multi-homing functionality.
This invention relates to network traffic routing in telecommunications systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing user plane functions (UPFs) in a network architecture that supports IPv6 multi-homing. IPv6 multi-homing allows a device to maintain multiple network connections simultaneously, improving reliability and load balancing. The invention describes a method for determining whether a UPF supports IPv6 multi-homing functionality. The method involves evaluating the traffic routing capabilities of the UPF to confirm its ability to handle multiple network interfaces or paths. This ensures that the UPF can dynamically route traffic across different network connections, enhancing redundancy and performance. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where network resilience and seamless connectivity are critical, such as in enterprise or cloud-based environments. By verifying the UPF's support for IPv6 multi-homing, the system can optimize traffic distribution and maintain uninterrupted service even if one network path fails. The invention improves network efficiency and reliability by leveraging advanced routing capabilities in modern telecommunications infrastructure.
15. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second message further comprises at least one of: an identifier of the user plane function; an IP address of the user plane function; a fully qualified domain name of the user plane function; or a profile of the user plane function.
This invention relates to communication systems, specifically methods for enhancing message exchange between network functions in a 5G or similar mobile network architecture. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable communication between network functions, particularly when establishing or modifying connections involving a user plane function (UPF), which handles user data traffic. The method involves transmitting a first message from a network function to another network function, where the first message includes information about a user plane function. The second message, sent in response, further includes additional identifying details about the user plane function. These details may include an identifier, an IP address, a fully qualified domain name (FQDN), or a profile of the user plane function. The profile may contain configuration parameters, capabilities, or other relevant attributes of the UPF. This additional information ensures that the receiving network function can accurately identify and interact with the UPF, improving communication reliability and reducing errors in data routing. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where dynamic UPF selection or reconfiguration is required, such as during handover, session establishment, or network slicing operations. By providing comprehensive UPF details in the second message, the system ensures seamless integration and proper functioning of the user plane function within the network. This approach enhances network efficiency, reduces latency, and improves overall service quality.
16. The method of claim 1 , further comprising sending, by the session management function to the user plane function, a session association setup request.
A system and method for managing network sessions in a telecommunications environment, particularly in a 5G or similar next-generation network architecture, addresses the challenge of efficiently establishing and maintaining data sessions between user devices and network services. The system involves a session management function (SMF) that coordinates session establishment, modification, and release. The SMF interacts with a user plane function (UPF) to handle data routing and forwarding. The method includes sending a session association setup request from the SMF to the UPF to establish a connection for data transmission. This request may include parameters such as session identifiers, quality of service (QoS) requirements, and routing information. The UPF processes the request to configure the necessary data paths and resources. The system ensures seamless data flow while optimizing network resource usage and performance. The method may also involve additional steps such as session modification or release, where the SMF sends corresponding requests to the UPF to adjust or terminate the session. The overall solution enhances session management efficiency, reduces latency, and improves service reliability in modern network architectures.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the session association setup request comprises an N4 session association setup request.
A system and method for managing network sessions in a 5G core network addresses the challenge of efficiently establishing and maintaining communication sessions between network functions. The invention involves a process where a network function, such as a User Plane Function (UPF), sends a session association setup request to another network function, such as a Session Management Function (SMF). This request includes an N4 session association setup request, which is a specific type of signaling message used in the 5G core network to establish a communication session over the N4 interface between the UPF and SMF. The N4 interface is a critical control plane interface that enables the SMF to manage and control the UPF's data plane functions. The setup request includes necessary parameters to configure the session, such as quality of service (QoS) requirements, traffic routing rules, and session identifiers. The receiving network function processes the request and responds with a session association setup response, confirming the establishment of the session. This method ensures reliable and efficient session management, enabling seamless data transmission and service delivery in the 5G network. The invention improves network performance by reducing latency and optimizing resource allocation during session establishment.
18. The method of claim 16 , further comprising receiving, by the session management function from the user plane function, a session association setup response.
A system and method for managing network sessions in a wireless communication environment involves dynamically establishing and modifying session associations between a session management function (SMF) and a user plane function (UPF) to optimize data routing and service delivery. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in traditional networks where static session associations lead to suboptimal routing, increased latency, and poor resource utilization. The invention enables dynamic session association setup by allowing the SMF to initiate a session association request to the UPF, specifying parameters such as quality of service (QoS) requirements, traffic routing rules, and session identifiers. The UPF processes this request and establishes the necessary forwarding rules to handle the session traffic according to the specified parameters. To ensure proper session management, the SMF receives a session association setup response from the UPF, confirming the successful establishment of the session association. This response may include confirmation of the applied QoS policies, routing rules, and any modifications made by the UPF. The dynamic nature of this process allows for real-time adjustments based on network conditions, user mobility, and service requirements, improving overall network efficiency and performance. The invention is particularly useful in 5G and beyond networks where flexible and scalable session management is critical.
19. The method of claim 16 , wherein the session association setup request comprises: an address of the user plane function; or a fully qualified domain name of the user plane function.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for establishing session associations between network functions in a 5G or similar architecture. The problem addressed is the efficient and reliable setup of communication sessions between network functions, particularly between control plane and user plane components, to ensure seamless data transmission and service continuity. The method involves transmitting a session association setup request from a control plane function to a user plane function. The request includes either an address of the user plane function or a fully qualified domain name (FQDN) of the user plane function. This allows the control plane to dynamically identify and establish a connection with the correct user plane function, even if the user plane function's address or identity changes. The method ensures that the control plane can locate and communicate with the appropriate user plane function, enabling proper session management and data routing. The session association setup request may also include additional parameters, such as session identifiers or quality-of-service requirements, to further customize the communication link. This ensures that the session is established with the necessary parameters for optimal performance. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where network functions are distributed or virtualized, requiring flexible and dynamic communication mechanisms.
20. The method of claim 1 , wherein the uplink classifier functionality comprises: at least one packet filtering rule; at least one traffic detection rule; or at least one traffic forwarding rule.
This invention relates to network traffic classification and management, specifically improving the handling of uplink traffic in communication systems. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and flexible classification of uplink traffic to optimize network performance, security, and resource allocation. The method involves implementing an uplink classifier functionality that processes network traffic based on predefined rules. The classifier includes at least one packet filtering rule to selectively allow or block packets based on criteria such as source, destination, or protocol. Additionally, it incorporates at least one traffic detection rule to identify and categorize different types of traffic flows, such as voice, video, or data, for prioritization or monitoring. The classifier may also apply at least one traffic forwarding rule to direct traffic to specific network paths, gateways, or processing modules based on the detected traffic type or other conditions. By integrating these rules, the classifier enhances traffic management by ensuring that uplink traffic is processed according to predefined policies, improving network efficiency, security, and quality of service. The rules can be dynamically updated to adapt to changing network conditions or security threats, providing a scalable and adaptable solution for modern communication networks.
Unknown
November 10, 2020
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